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Ellicott City Prepares For a Possible Round 2

ELLICOTT CITY, Md. (WJZ)– With heavy rain and strong storms in the forecast, Ellicott City isn’t taking any chances.

Two months ago, historic flooding hit the area, destroying businesses and leaving two people dead. The incoming storms could cause widespread flooding across Maryland, especially in Ellicott City. Any more damage there would be a major blow. A spot where some businesses have yet to recover from.

The flooding ravaged parts of historic Main Street and forever changed some businesses.

“It looks like something out of world war two & it’s going to be a long time before they’re ready to go,” said Michael Johnson, co-owner of Judges Bench Pub.

The road to recovery continues weeks later and in the midst of rebuilding , mother nature is now expected to wallop the area once again.

“Everybody is kind of the same way like oh, not again, every hoping for the best,but it’s still scary to hear,” said Simon Cortes, owner of La Palapa.

The system could bring six inches of rain in some spots. On Wednesday, a few spots along Main Street started to load up with sandbags and county officials made their way through the city to inspect buildings and take necessary precautions.

“This rainfall is expected to be 3-5 inches of rain in 48-72 hours, so its totally different than what we had in the past,” said Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman.

Storms that are still worrisome for Simon Cortes.

“We’re just now getting over what happened on the 30th,” said Cortes.

He owns La Palapa on Main street and had to gut his entire building after July.

“It’s been 2 months and we’re planning on re-opening this Friday and the last thing we need is another setback,” said Cortes.

A setback that would be devastating.

“This is not the same as what happened on July 30 and we believe we’ll be able to weather this storm,” said Kittleman.

Howard County has done a lot over the last two months to prepare for future rainfall like this, including suring up the walls of the channel and improving storm drains.

They’re urging residents to take necessary precautions and stay informed on social media.

Rick Ritter joined WJZ Eyewitness News in May 2014 as a reporter.
Born and raised in Philadelphia and South Jersey, Rick is thrilled to come back to the Northeast!
Before moving to Baltimore, Rick was the Collier County bureau chief reporter a...